Thomas Friedman’s article in the New York Times, People vs. Dinosaurs, makes the case that Israel, which may seem to be headed for trouble due to political chaos, is actually looking towards a brighter future than Iran. Iran seems to maintaining a stronger position due to the world’s economic dependence on oil. However, Israel is presented as a nation with an excited and pioneering population, one better equipped to deal with the technologically advanced world.

Friedman’s idea of betting on a nation built on fresh ideas is seductive. But is it so simple? In some time, oil may be a thing of the past. At this point, however, society remains captive to gas. If Iran maintains its power through its stronghold on oil, will Israel’s dynamic spirit be overshadowed? Before we can make bets on the next twenty years, perhaps we should have a solution to the energy problem. Maybe we should look to the spirited, innovative people of Israel for an answer.